PSOE councillor María García has condemned the PP-led government’s failure to manage education properly, stating that “after two years and two approved budgets, Orihuela’s schools remain in a deplorable state with no real improvements.”
She criticized Education Councilor Mr. Pina for offering “only excuses instead of solutions” and reminded him that “in May 2023, we had already prepared 19 detailed reports outlining the deficiencies in schools, providing the necessary groundwork for launching a maintenance contract. Yet, nearly two years into their administration and after two budgets, what has actually improved?
Aside from a few emergency repairs, there has been no significant investment in educational infrastructure. What has been the point of these two budgets and the €40 million investment if none of it is allocated to Orihuela’s schools? That is unacceptable.”
García also dismissed claims of “fake news” directed at the AMPA of CEIP Antonio Sequeros, asserting that “families have every right to demand decent conditions for their children.
The reality is clear for all to see. We cannot keep using the past as an excuse for inaction—the current government has both the budget and the resources, but it lacks the initiative to implement urgent contracts to resolve the precarious state of schools. Public education in Orihuela cannot rely on charity or temporary fixes.”
To make matters worse, García pointed out that Mr. Pina has now conveniently announced that the maintenance contract will be ready “next quarter.” However, she reminded him that “he made the same promise last year, and yet, nothing has changed. So who is really spreading ‘fake news’?
Parents have every right to demand proper conditions for their children’s education, and their frustration is more than justified. Politics should be about listening, addressing concerns, and improving people’s lives—not hiding behind excuses. Mr. Pina, take action now. You have the resources, you have the budget—the only thing you lack is political will and commitment to public education.
We will bring a motion to the next council meeting to demand urgent action for this school, just as we have done for other issues, such as Oriol, the state of sports facilities, and road infrastructure in Orihuela Costa.”
Finally, García asked, “What does Vox have to say about all this? Will they not stand up for the families of Orihuela who are demanding proper conditions for their children? This situation is truly disgraceful.”
She also called out the Urban Planning Councilor for spreading misinformation, stating that “he previously announced that the third school would open in January, then postponed it to February 10, and now it’s February 12, and the school remains closed.
I urge him to follow through on his promises because many families still have their children at home, unable to attend overcrowded schools in Orihuela Costa.”
